Oklahoma City elementary school to build above ground shelter to keep kids safe

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Public schools

Oklahoma City elementary school to build above ground shelter to keep kids safe

Public schools

OKLAHOMA CITY – A local elementary school is constructing some big plans for their school.

Downtown Oklahoma City’s new elementary school John Rex Charter plans to construct an above ground storm shelter by early 2015, thanks to a $100,000 challenge grant from Shelter Oklahoma Schools.

“When the May 20 tornados destroyed area schools last year, we knew we had to act quickly to protect future loss of lives of Oklahoma school children,” said McBride, co-founder of Shelter Oklahoma Schools.

Pierce said the 3,000-square-foot shelter will include cast-in-place concrete walls and roof. Architects also redesigned the main entrance of the school which provide restricted access and more security cameras throughout the building.

“Security is an issue every school must proactively address, especially an urban school. We want to do everything possible to ensure our families feel safe and protected while in our care.”

The first day of classes for John Rex Charter is scheduled for Aug. 20.